IMRF supports 2010: The Year of the Engaged Older Adult

On December 10, 2009, Gov. Pat Quinn detailed plans for a year-long campaign to encourage older adults to engage in community activities.

The campaign, 2010: The Year of the Engaged Older Adult, is a call to action for individuals, families, and communities to boost learning, strengthen the workforce, and enrich community life by encouraging adults ages 50 and older to lend their expertise to these areas.

The announcement was made during the opening session of the annual Governor’s Conference on Aging.

“This program will expand our efforts to strengthen communities across Illinois,” said Gov. Quinn.

“The initiative will help increase the number of seniors who participate in volunteer activities in Illinois, allowing them to contribute their talents and expertise to benefit their communities,” he added.

Illinois Department on Aging Director Charles D. Johnson is leading the statewide initiative with the support of an advisory team.

“Our goal is to engage citizens, especially those ages 50 and older, and tap their talents to benefit others,” Johnson said.

IMRF supports this effort

IMRF has added its name to the growing list of organizations that support 2010: The Year of the Engaged Older Adult. IMRF Executive Director Louis W. Kosiba has participated in the June National Governor’s Association—Illinois Policy Academy on the Civic Engagement of Older Adults and will actively participate in the First Summit on Aging and Education to be held in Normal, Illinois this September.

This Summit will address key economic issues, such as increasing graduation rates, fostering healthy lifestyles for all ages, and strengthening the workforce.

How can you participate?

Being active and involved with others is important to aging in a healthy way. IMRF encourages our members to support 2010: The Year of the Engaged Older Adult by becoming actively involved in civic engagement, volunteer opportunities, and lifelong learning.

Have a story you’d like to share?

We’d like to hear how our members are currently contributing their knowledge and expertise through civic engagement and volunteerism.

If you are currently volunteering and would like to share with us how this experience has enriched your life, email IMRF Communications Manager Linda Horrell at lindahorrell-communications@imrf.org. Your story may even appear in a future Fundamentals article!

Additional Resources

• 2010: The year of the Engaged Older Adult official website
• IMRF Retiree Fundamentals featuring The Year of the Engaged Older Adult story (pdf)

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